Fractured Femur (Feline)

This is "Simba", a 1 1/2 year-old male domestic shorthair cat that was hit by a car, resulting in a complete fracture of the left femur (thigh bone). After initial treatment for shock, radiographs were taken of the chest, abdomen, pelvis and hind limbs. The fracture of the femur involved the midshaft and several small fragments were evident.

Fractures of the femur can only be repaired by surgical techniques. Because of the large muscle mass associated with the upper thigh, fractures of the femur cannot be repaired by external casting. The bones must be realigned by internal surgical fixation. This involves placing a stainless steel pin inside of the femur (marrow cavity) which provides alignment and stability.

After the surgery is completed, radiographs are retaken to ensure proper pin placement and alignment. In this case, the alignment and stability was good. The tip of the pin extended slightly into the knee joint, so it was retracted slightly to allow free movement at the knee joint. A loose bone fragment was secured with stainless steel (cerclage) wire.

The above image shows the patient after surgery is completed. The end of the intramedullary pin is visible protruding from the top of the hip area (arrow). The depth of the pin insertion can be adjusted by manipulating this pin end. It is then cut off below the surface of the skin. Six to eight weeks later, when the fracture has healed, the pin will be removed through a small skin incision over the pin end.